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Permanent Admit: A Tale from the Avalon
At the Avalon, the lights dim on schedule. The reels always run. And Row B, Seat 6 is never sold.
Valerie Lark knows the theater’s rhythms—the hum of the projector, the creak of settling walls, the quiet drift of patrons into the night. Most evenings pass exactly as expected. Except for one thing.
One seat is always occupied by a man no one remembers admitting and no record ever lists.
He doesn’t move.
He doesn’t speak.
And he never leaves.
When Val uncovers film reels that shouldn’t exist—footage of moments that haven’t happened and images of herself she doesn’t remember living—she begins to understand the truth. The Avalon isn’t haunted. It’s attentive. It keeps what stays too long.
As the line between observer and subject fades, Val must decide whether to break the routine—or become part of it.
Permanent Admit is a quietly unsettling novella about memory, routine, and the cost of remaining in the same place too long.
Valerie Lark knows the theater’s rhythms—the hum of the projector, the creak of settling walls, the quiet drift of patrons into the night. Most evenings pass exactly as expected. Except for one thing.
One seat is always occupied by a man no one remembers admitting and no record ever lists.
He doesn’t move.
He doesn’t speak.
And he never leaves.
When Val uncovers film reels that shouldn’t exist—footage of moments that haven’t happened and images of herself she doesn’t remember living—she begins to understand the truth. The Avalon isn’t haunted. It’s attentive. It keeps what stays too long.
As the line between observer and subject fades, Val must decide whether to break the routine—or become part of it.
Permanent Admit is a quietly unsettling novella about memory, routine, and the cost of remaining in the same place too long.
108 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 25, 2026
About the author
Chris McKenna
5 books17 followersChris McKenna is an award-winning author, underwater photographer, filmmaker, and certified scuba instructor who turns real-world adventure into meaningful stories for readers of all ages. After decades exploring coral reefs around the world with a camera in hand, Chris began writing children's books inspired by his granddaughter, Olivia—blending imagination, kindness, and ocean conservation into stories families can share together.
He is the author of the children's books "Olivia Mae and Her Scuba Diving Day" and "Captain Olivia and the Treasure of Kindness", stories that celebrate curiosity, courage, and caring for the ocean. His work also includes the atmospheric horror novella "Permanent Admit", reflecting his passion for character-driven stories across multiple genres.
Chris is also the author of "Foundations in Underwater Photography", an introductory guide that helps new divers and photographers build the skills and confidence to create better images beneath the waves through practical techniques and real-world experience.
When he's not writing, diving, or photographing marine life, Chris works as a Financial Analyst in the aerospace industry. He lives in Washington with his wife of more than 35 years and their dog, always dreaming of the next adventure beneath the waves.
Chris enjoys connecting with readers who share a love of the ocean, storytelling, photography, and the adventures that bring them together.
He is the author of the children's books "Olivia Mae and Her Scuba Diving Day" and "Captain Olivia and the Treasure of Kindness", stories that celebrate curiosity, courage, and caring for the ocean. His work also includes the atmospheric horror novella "Permanent Admit", reflecting his passion for character-driven stories across multiple genres.
Chris is also the author of "Foundations in Underwater Photography", an introductory guide that helps new divers and photographers build the skills and confidence to create better images beneath the waves through practical techniques and real-world experience.
When he's not writing, diving, or photographing marine life, Chris works as a Financial Analyst in the aerospace industry. He lives in Washington with his wife of more than 35 years and their dog, always dreaming of the next adventure beneath the waves.
Chris enjoys connecting with readers who share a love of the ocean, storytelling, photography, and the adventures that bring them together.
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
February 17, 2026
Book review:
Permanent Admit: A Tale from the Avalon creates a quiet sense of mystery through its setting and mood. The old theater feels familiar and predictable, with its daily routines and subtle sounds forming the backbone of the story. This sense of normalcy makes the presence of the silent man in Row B, Seat 6 stand out in an unsettling way. From the beginning, the book draws you in by showing how something strange can exist unnoticed within ordinary life.
As Valerie starts finding unusual film reels and questioning her own memories, the story slowly becomes more psychological. The focus is not on fast action but on her growing confusion and discomfort. The Avalon itself feels almost like a character, watching and recording what happens inside it. Through Valerie’s experiences, the book explores how routine, memory, and identity can blur over time when someone stays in one place for too long.
Overall, this is a thoughtful and atmospheric story that relies on tension and emotion rather than shock. It makes the reader think about habits, stagnation, and the fear of losing control over one’s own life. The slow pace works in its favor, allowing the ideas to sink in naturally. Readers who enjoy subtle mystery and reflective storytelling will likely find this book memorable.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Permanent Admit: A Tale from the Avalon creates a quiet sense of mystery through its setting and mood. The old theater feels familiar and predictable, with its daily routines and subtle sounds forming the backbone of the story. This sense of normalcy makes the presence of the silent man in Row B, Seat 6 stand out in an unsettling way. From the beginning, the book draws you in by showing how something strange can exist unnoticed within ordinary life.
As Valerie starts finding unusual film reels and questioning her own memories, the story slowly becomes more psychological. The focus is not on fast action but on her growing confusion and discomfort. The Avalon itself feels almost like a character, watching and recording what happens inside it. Through Valerie’s experiences, the book explores how routine, memory, and identity can blur over time when someone stays in one place for too long.
Overall, this is a thoughtful and atmospheric story that relies on tension and emotion rather than shock. It makes the reader think about habits, stagnation, and the fear of losing control over one’s own life. The slow pace works in its favor, allowing the ideas to sink in naturally. Readers who enjoy subtle mystery and reflective storytelling will likely find this book memorable.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
January 25, 2026
A Story That Haunted Me Until I Wrote It.
As the author of Permanent Admit: A Tale from the Avalon>, I’ll admit this review comes with a unique perspective. This is my first foray into adult fiction, and this story stayed with me for years before I finally put it to paper.
Set inside the dim glow of an old movie theater, the book explores memory, mystery, and the quiet questions that linger long after the lights come up. I won’t share any spoilers, but if you enjoy stories with atmosphere, subtle tension, and a touch of the uncanny woven into everyday life, this tale may be right up your aisle.
Writing Permanent Admit felt very different from creating my children’s books. It allowed me to lean into mood, pacing, and the kind of storytelling that invites readers to look a little closer at what might be hiding in plain sight.
If you decide to step into The Avalon, I hope the experience lingers with you in the best possible way.
And if you’ve already read it, I would be sincerely grateful if you left a review here on Goodreads. Your thoughts help this story find its way to other curious readers.
Thanks for taking a seat. The show is about to begin.
As the author of Permanent Admit: A Tale from the Avalon>, I’ll admit this review comes with a unique perspective. This is my first foray into adult fiction, and this story stayed with me for years before I finally put it to paper.
Set inside the dim glow of an old movie theater, the book explores memory, mystery, and the quiet questions that linger long after the lights come up. I won’t share any spoilers, but if you enjoy stories with atmosphere, subtle tension, and a touch of the uncanny woven into everyday life, this tale may be right up your aisle.
Writing Permanent Admit felt very different from creating my children’s books. It allowed me to lean into mood, pacing, and the kind of storytelling that invites readers to look a little closer at what might be hiding in plain sight.
If you decide to step into The Avalon, I hope the experience lingers with you in the best possible way.
And if you’ve already read it, I would be sincerely grateful if you left a review here on Goodreads. Your thoughts help this story find its way to other curious readers.
Thanks for taking a seat. The show is about to begin.
April 13, 2026
Permanent Admit offers a chilling psychological horror story set inside the mysterious Avalon theater. Valerie Lark is familiar with the theater’s nightly routine, but everything changes when she notices a strange man sitting in Row B Seat B6 who never seems to leave.The quiet mystery slowly builds an eerie atmosphere that keeps readers curious and uneasy.
As Valerie tries to understand what she’s seeing, Milo and Jan stand by her side through the unsettling events. Strange discoveries, including film reels that appear to show moments from the future, begin to blur Valerie’s sense of reality. Their presence adds both support and tension as the mystery deepens.
The story shines through its haunting atmosphere and psychological suspense.The Avalon theater feels almost alive, holding secrets within its walls. Along with Milo and Jan, Valerie searches for answers while the unsettling feeling of being watched grows stronger.
By the end, the novella leaves readers with lingering questions and quiet dread. Chris McKenna crafts a thoughtful horror tale about memory, routine, and the fear of becoming trapped in something unknown. It’s a subtle yet eerie read that stays with you.
As Valerie tries to understand what she’s seeing, Milo and Jan stand by her side through the unsettling events. Strange discoveries, including film reels that appear to show moments from the future, begin to blur Valerie’s sense of reality. Their presence adds both support and tension as the mystery deepens.
The story shines through its haunting atmosphere and psychological suspense.The Avalon theater feels almost alive, holding secrets within its walls. Along with Milo and Jan, Valerie searches for answers while the unsettling feeling of being watched grows stronger.
By the end, the novella leaves readers with lingering questions and quiet dread. Chris McKenna crafts a thoughtful horror tale about memory, routine, and the fear of becoming trapped in something unknown. It’s a subtle yet eerie read that stays with you.
March 19, 2026
I thoroughly enjoyed Permanent Admit: A Tale from the Avalon by Chris McKenna. From the very first page, the story captivated me with its rich world-building and intriguing plot. McKenna does a fantastic job of blending suspense, adventure, and emotional depth, making it hard to put the book down. The characters are well-developed and relatable, with personal struggles and growth that felt both authentic and engaging.
What really stood out to me was the author's ability to craft such a vivid and immersive world, pulling me into a setting that was both fantastical and believable. The pacing was perfect, with just the right amount of tension and relief at key moments. McKenna's writing style is polished and thoughtful, and I found myself not only enjoying the story but also reflecting on its deeper themes.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well-crafted tale with complex characters and an unforgettable journey. It's a must-read!
What really stood out to me was the author's ability to craft such a vivid and immersive world, pulling me into a setting that was both fantastical and believable. The pacing was perfect, with just the right amount of tension and relief at key moments. McKenna's writing style is polished and thoughtful, and I found myself not only enjoying the story but also reflecting on its deeper themes.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well-crafted tale with complex characters and an unforgettable journey. It's a must-read!
June 21, 2026
I just finished reading Permanent Admit: A Tale from the Avalon, and I feel like I stepped straight out of an episode of The Twilight Zone. From page one, it felt like I was traveling through another dimension, a dimension not only of sight and sound, but of mind! 😆
There’s an eerie undercurrent woven through the entire story, the kind that settles in your spine and makes you glance over your shoulder. But what really impressed me was how seamlessly Chris McKenna interjects his deep knowledge of film, projection, and old‑school theater mechanics. Those details ground the supernatural elements and make the Avalon feel startlingly real.
If you love The Twilight Zone, the mystery, the mood, the slow‑creeping dread… you’ll love this book. It captures that same uncanny magic
February 9, 2026
This novella creates a slow and eerie atmosphere that stays with you after reading. The theater feels alive and watching which makes the story deeply unsettling. Valerie is a strong and believable character and the mystery builds in a quiet but powerful way. Permanent Admit is a thoughtful story about memory routine and what happens when we stay in one place for too long.
February 16, 2026
A haunting meditation on memory and stagnation.
This novella doesn’t rely on shock—it relies on atmosphere. The idea of a place that watches, remembers, and keeps is deeply unsettling. Valerie Lark is a compelling protagonist, and her slow realization is both intimate and terrifying. Quiet horror at its absolute best.
This novella doesn’t rely on shock—it relies on atmosphere. The idea of a place that watches, remembers, and keeps is deeply unsettling. Valerie Lark is a compelling protagonist, and her slow realization is both intimate and terrifying. Quiet horror at its absolute best.
April 2, 2026
This novella builds tension through stillness rather than action. The theater feels alive in a subtle, almost watchful way. It’s the kind of story that lingers because of what it doesn’t explain outright.
April 2, 2026
What makes this story unsettling is how grounded it feels. There’s no loud horror just a creeping sense that something is wrong, and it’s been wrong for a long time.
April 2, 2026
The writing is restrained, almost quiet, but that’s where its strength lies. It doesn’t overwhelm you to slowly pulls you into its unease.
April 2, 2026
The idea of a place that “keeps” people who stay too long is fascinating. It transforms a simple setting into something deeply symbolic.
October 10, 2026
Permanent Admit: A Tale from the Avalon by Chris McKenna is an unfolding horror show set at a theater that creeps along pulling you in. It has the same vibe as the Twilight Zone or The Outer Limits. The main Valerie is an interesting character that works her way through the mystery. The novella enlists interesting info on old theaters to enhance the setting/story. A fun and fast read for anyone. 5 stars.
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews